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What does Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) refer to?

  1. A level of informal language skills

  2. Basic communication skills

  3. Formal academic learning in content areas

  4. The ability to converse fluently

The correct answer is: Formal academic learning in content areas

Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) refers to the formal academic language skills necessary for success in school settings, particularly in content areas such as mathematics, science, and literature. It encompasses the cognitive processes involved in understanding and producing the language of academic subjects, which includes the ability to analyze complex texts, engage in critical thinking, and utilize specialized vocabulary. CALP is distinct from Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (BICS), which refer to the informal language used in everyday conversational contexts. While BICS can be developed in a relatively short time, CALP often takes several years to fully develop, as it is more demanding and requires a deeper understanding of language structures, academic discourse, and context-specific terminology. The focus of CALP is on how students learn and express ideas in an academic environment, making it crucial for their overall academic success. Thus, recognizing and fostering CALP is essential for educators working with students, particularly English Language Learners, to ensure they can engage effectively with content and demonstrate their knowledge in academic settings.